Lexus NX vs Lexus RX: which is better?
Luxury SUVs are a popular choice when it comes to buyers of used cars, and Lexus has a few models in their range. But which is best, the NX and RX?
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There are plenty of SUVs to pick from, with buyers favouring their raised ride height and added practicality. Even Lexus has a growing list of five hybrid and electric models.
If you’re struggling to pick between a used Lexus NX vs. used Lexus RX, some important differences set them apart that we outline below.
Lexus RX vs. Lexus NX: which has more style?
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Both models clearly belong to the same family of cars and feature typical Lexus design quirks, such as slanted and angular body lines and distinctive headlight and daytime running light signatures.
However, they also have their own unique features. The Lexus RX, for example, has a refined and elegant look that gives it the road presence of a much larger SUV.
The smaller Lexus NX uses the brand’s angular styling to its advantage to create a sportier and more aggressive look.
Although both have similar front-end designs using what Lexus calls its ‘spindle grille’, the RX sits slightly more upright than the NX.
The larger RX also features a two-tone design on the C-pillar – the area of the car between the rear windows and the boot – that gives the illusion of a floating roof.
What is it like to drive a Lexus NX vs. RX?
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The Lexus NX and RX are a pair of mid-size and large family SUVs. Typically, SUVs are less engaging to drive because their extra height makes them lean in corners.
This is where Lexus’s long-standing hybrid technology comes in. Because the batteries sit low, they both have low centres of gravity, which helps refine the driving experience.
Newer versions use four-cylinder engines in the name of fuel economy, but they’re still as quick as some hot hatches thanks to the extra help of the electric motors.
Previous-generation Lexus RX models came with larger V6 engines, but they weren’t as efficient as many other SUVs.
Both cars are geared toward offering a more comfortable driving experience and glide well over undulating country roads and bumps around town.
The RX does this even better, but the NX isn’t an uncomfortable place by any standards.
What is the technology in the Lexus RX and NX?
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Standard equipment across the board for both models is great, making them viable alternatives to the popular and well-established premium German SUVs – think BMW and Mercedes.
Newer NX models come with a large touchscreen infotainment system, but add the Premium Pack, Premium Plus Pack, or Takumi, and you could get things like a 360-degree camera and self-parking technology.
Being a sister company to Toyota, you can also expect plenty of useable safety kit, like automatic high beams that dip to prevent blinding oncoming traffic.
Being the brand’s flagship SUV, the RX comes with even more standard equipment, such as a sound system designed by Panasonic. It also has an even larger touchscreen display.
Lexus NX vs. RX dimensions and boot space
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At 4,890mm long, the Lexus RX may not be as long as you’d have thought. In fact, a Lexus ES saloon is 8.5cm longer. The RX is 1,920mm wide with the mirrors folded in, and 1,695mm tall.
The NX is noticeably smaller, and telling the difference between the two is very easy in person. It’s 4,660mm long, 1,865mm wide (plus mirrors) and 1,660mm tall.
Surprisingly, the boot in the Lexus NX is substantially bigger, measuring 521-525 litres, depending on which model you go for.
The Lexus RX’s 461-litre boot is around 200 litres smaller than the best in class, but it’s still spacious enough to carry a few suitcases. The car makes up for this with its roomy and comfortable rear seats.
NX vs. RX: which is more reliable?
Both the Lexus NX and Lexus RX are reliable vehicles. Lexus is not only a dependable manufacturer, but it has the backing of Toyota, which has built itself a great reputation over the years.
Although these cars come with a pretty average warranty, service it annually at a recognised garage and you’ll be able to get up to 10 years’ cover, which is industry-leading and speaks volumes about how sure Lexus is of its cars.
Used Lexus NX vs. used Lexus RX: which should I buy?
Lexus has an impressive range of SUVs and other models, all with sophisticated, efficient, and punchy hybrid setups.
The NX is an excellent pick for anyone wanting SUV-related benefits, like practicality, without having to take a hit when it comes to efficiency.
The RX is designed less to be a family car and more to be a luxury vehicle (though it does both excellently), so unless you want something premium that stands out, an NX will be more affordable and just as practical.